🔈 Can the "Los Blancos" kick off the new La Liga season with a win? In the opening round of La Liga, the country's runners-up will face off against the resilient Osasuna on the pitch at the Santiago Bernabéu. According to bookmakers, the visitors have minimal chances of success, standing as the absolute underdogs in this clash. Nevertheless, Osasuna's deep defensive line might pose a challenge for Real Madrid in breaking down their defense. Here are the odds for this encounter: a home win is at 1.25, while an away victory is at 12. 

Head-to-Head

📊 Throughout their head-to-head history, Osasuna have managed to triumph over Real Madrid in just 13 encounters. In the last 10 games, the "Reds" have not once outperformed the "Whites" — suffering 7 defeats and securing 3 draws. The last victory for the team from Pamplona against the capital giants dates back to the 2010/11 La Liga season (1-0).

Real Madrid Team Overview

⚪ Real Madrid are entering a new era under the leadership of Xabi Alonso. The Spanish tactician made a name for himself in the German league, where he sensationally ended Bayern's dominance in the Bundesliga. High pressing and a high defensive line are key aspects of Xabi Alonso's tactical style. It will be intriguing to see how Vinicius and Mbappe interact under the new coach.

🌐 Real Madrid's preseason was rather disjointed due to their participation in the Club World Cup. The only friendly match played was against Austria's Tirol, which ended in a convincing 4-0 victory for Los Blancos. Interestingly, in Xabi Alonso's tactical setup, Kylian Mbappe appears far more dangerous and effective, capable of exploiting open spaces and finishing his chances with composure.

Osasuna Team Overview

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Real Madrid

🏷 Florentino Perez swiftly moved in the transfer market, quickly securing new additions for the club's latest project. Trent Alexander-Arnold, Dean Heysen, Alvaro Carreras, and Franco Mastantuono have joined the ranks. In total, the "Galacticos" spent over €150 million. The signings of the first two players are particularly significant as they address Real's problem areas—Carvajal is no longer in his prime, and his frequent injuries affect his consistency, while the center-back position let Los Blancos down multiple times last season.

🎤 Recently, Real Madrid officially unveiled Franco Mastantuono as their new player. Here’s what the Argentine prodigy had to say: “Today my dream came true! I have become part of the greatest club in football history, and I am overwhelmed with happiness. This day will forever be etched in my memory. I promise to give my all on the pitch, fighting for this jersey. It is a tremendous honor to play for Real Madrid. I know that alongside me on the field will be another devoted fan of this club—myself.”

❌ In the "Galacticos" injury list are Jude Bellingham, Endrick, and Ferland Mendy. Additionally, Xabi Alonso will not be able to count on Antonio Rüdiger, who is serving a suspension.

Osasuna

🏷 Let's discuss Osasuna's transfer campaign. The "Reds" have kept a low profile in the market, managing to sign only Víctor Muñoz from Real for €5 million. Additionally, they brought in Valentin Rosier as a free agent, who is expected to be a full replacement for Jesús Areso, who left for Athletic. Just two new signings indicate a well-defined club strategy and the need for targeted reinforcements.

❌ Great news for the fans and the club's coaching staff is the absence of injured players. This means Alessio Lisci can rely on an optimal lineup for the opening round of La Liga.

Yellow Card Prediction

Yellow Card Prediction

Last season, the Reds picked up more cautions, averaging 2.4 per game compared to Real's 1.5. In their head-to-head clashes, the pattern remains similar: 2.8 against 1.7 in favor of Osasuna. The Pamplona side's physical style results in a significant number of fouls. Our editorial team suggests backing Osasuna to win the yellow card battle.

Goals Prediction

In the last eight encounters with Real, the Reds have consistently conceded. Furthermore, in 4 out of the last 5 meetings, the total goals exceeded 2.5. Against Osasuna, the Whites find the net around 2.6 times per game. It’s reasonable to opt for this bet – Real's individual total over 2 goals.

Corners Prediction

Let's look at the corner kick ratio in Real versus Osasuna matchups: 6 to 4 in favor of the Whites. Last season, the Madrid club showed a positive trend in this statistic: 6.4 to 4.2. The same can't be said for Osasuna, who averaged 4.6 compared to their opponents' 5. Given these insights, we lean towards Real to win the corners with a -2.5 handicap.

Xabi Alonso has already showcased his coaching prowess at the Club World Cup, skillfully influencing his team's play through substitutions and in-game tactical adjustments. We anticipate even more intriguing developments from one of the most talented contemporary coaches in the upcoming season. We don't see Osasuna as a serious threat to Los Blancos, especially following Vicente Moreno's departure from the club. We predict a final score of 3-0, with the key bet being Real's victory with a -1.5 handicap.